Turkey Leads New Sunni Security Alliance Concerned About Israel’s Regional Power

Dr. Eitan Yanirugak, a Turkey expert at Tel Aviv University’s Moshe Dayan Center, analyzed a new regional security initiative led by Turkey that is drawing significant attention in Israeli political and defense circles. The emerging military alliance includes Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, with each country motivated by concerns related to Israel and regional rivalries. Saudi Arabia seeks protection against Iran, despite recent coordination challenges with the Houthis, Pakistan views the alliance as a counterbalance to India, and Turkey perceives Israel’s growing influence as a direct threat.

Although Turkey is a NATO member and does not practically require an additional defense pact, it is actively spearheading this Sunni Muslim coalition to restore its historical influence in the Middle East. Dr. Yanirugak explained that Turkey aims to unite Sunni Islamic countries by framing Israel as a regional threat, facilitating cohesion among Muslim states. The alliance could expand to include Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Iraq, and Lebanon, extending Turkey’s sphere of influence.

In response, Israeli policymakers face strategic options such as strengthening ties with India and Greece, and potentially the United Arab Emirates, to counterbalance the new bloc. Dr. Yanirugak highlighted that Turkey’s primary goal is to curb Israel’s military stature in the region, noting that while Ankara does not openly declare the alliance as anti-Israel, its intentions are clear given Israel’s rising successes across various arenas.

This development signals a shifting regional security landscape, with Israel potentially needing to deepen partnerships with countries like India and Greece to maintain strategic balance amid Turkey’s efforts to lead a Sunni coalition against its influence.